Gavin Ashley Cooper
Group Singing, Singing Technique and Private Singing
Gavin has been involved in theatre from an early age, developing a particular passion for the musical side of performance through his studies in piano with Nova Teasdale. What began with standing in as a rehearsal pianist for local amateur societies quickly developed into a career combining performance, musical direction and education.
He trained at the University of Chichester as a pianist, organist, singer and conductor, gaining extensive experience both as a rehearsal pianist and pit musician. Alongside his musical studies, Gavin also studied theology at the University of Oxford, where he became Director of Chapel Music at his college and had the opportunity to work alongside musicians who have since become world-renowned in their fields.
Gavin has built an extensive career across theatre, education and live music. His experience as a Musical Director includes productions such as The Wizard of Oz, Calamity Jane, Godspell, Patience, Iolanthe and Return to The Forbidden Planet, while his work as a keyboard player and repetiteur has seen him involved in productions including Blood Brothers, Oliver!, West Side Story, The Witches of Eastwick, The Sound of Music, Legally Blonde and Carousel.
Alongside his theatre work, Gavin also has a strong background in teaching, having taught music, performing arts and vocal production at Peterborough Regional College and Anglia Ruskin University. He was also Resident Musical Director at Tu Danse Studios before joining Kindred Drama Consultancy, combining his teaching expertise with his work as a Musical Director.
His work has also taken him beyond the theatre, including a five-year role as resident accompanist to the Cranwell Military Wives’ Choir, performing at concerts across the country. In 2021, he was Resident Pianist and Musical Director for Darren Pritchard’s Rent Party at Battersea Arts Centre.
With decades of experience as a musician, educator and theatre practitioner, Gavin brings a wealth of musical knowledge and practical industry experience to his work with performers.